What is sinusitis?

What is sinusitis?

About 31 million Americans suffer from sinusitis1.If you're one of them and continue to battle sinus pain, headaches, and emotional drain for 12 weeks or more, you may be dealing with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).1,2

Physical suffering3

Headaches

Facial pain or pressure

Difficulty breathing through the nose

Nasal discharge that isn't clear

Fever

Fatigue

Upper tooth pain

Bad breath

Emotional struggle2

Limiting physical activities

Taking sick days from work

Being too ill to socialize

Nasal discharge that isn't clear

Having problems sleeping

Feeling moody and miserable

Sinusitis may also affect your relationships. You may be embarrassed by symptoms and may avoid social situations. You may also feel hopeless about finding a treatment option that brings you relief.2

What's going on in your sinuses?

"I've had constant severe pain behind my eyes. Sometimes throbbing pain in my cheeks and pulling in my ear. It's been going on for a year now." –CRS sufferer

CRS is inflammation or swelling of the lining of your nasal passages and sinuses.3 This can stop your sinuses from draining properly. Mucus and fluid build-up in your sinuses can lead to sinus infections, which means even more inflammation and pain.3

Types of sinuses6

Length of suffering7

Sinusitis symptom duration

Sinusitis type

Up to 4 weeks

Acute

Longer than 4 weeks but less than 12 weeks

Subacute

12 weeks or longer

Chronic

Occurs 4 or more times in a year, but can go away between episodes

Recurrent acute sinusitis

Some people struggle for years before finding relief

In a survey of 400 CRS sufferers, Over half had suffered for 15 years or more.2

How your doctor might diagnose symptoms7

Your doctor may ask you questions about your symptoms and health history, and take a sample of your nasal discharge to see what kind of infection you might have.

Depending on the exam results, your doctor may recommend other tests. One test lets your doctor examine the inside of your nose with an endoscope (a scope with a light attached)

Getting a CT scan

Your doctor may want to do a computed tomography (CT) scan that creates images of the inside of your sinuses. It may help your doctor more accurately diagnose your condition and select the best treatment option for you.7 A CT scan is also used with image guided system (IGS) procedures to help your doctor navigate your sinuses.

Safety Information

Balloon sinus surgery has associated risks, including tissue trauma, bleeding, infection, and possible ophthalmic injury. Patients should always discuss their individual needs and the potential risks and benefits of any treatment or procedure with their doctor.

This therapy is not for everyone. Please consult your doctor. A prescription is required. For additional information, please contact Medtronic at 800-874-5797 or visit Medtronic's website at www.medtronic.com